The largest kingfish tournament in the country turns 25 this year, and you don't have to be a fisherman to enjoy the event this weekend.

The BellSouth Greater Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament has become more than just a fishing event. People who go to Sisters Creek Park today and Saturday will enjoy free live entertainment, a fireworks display, the awards ceremony, a supervised kid zone for children ages 3 to 14 and plenty of food.

"About 54 percent of people that come have never fished before and come for the family atmosphere," said Mike Wheeler, the tournament's executive director.

Admission is free. Parking is $5, which includes a shuttle. There are VIP air-conditioned tents for those willing to pay a little extra.

The fishing itself will take place far offshore, but bleachers will be set up to catch a view of the fish being weighed in later today. The George Aspinall Band and Big Engine will perform this evening.

There will be no fishing on Saturday, but plenty of live entertainment. The Liars' Tent will feature the Swingin' Medallions. Stick around once the sun goes down for the city of Jacksonville's fireworks display.

The multi-million-dollar annual event, which started in 1981, is a long tradition for Jacksonville residents and fishermen who come from all over the Southeast to participate. To celebrate its silver anniversary, the tournament brought in all the previous first-, second- and third-place winners for a Tournament of Champions earlier this week.

Money generated from the tournament benefits marine education, conservation and preservation of fishing habitats. Local programs supported by the tournament include Mandarin High School reef ball project and research scholarships for marine science students attending the University of North Florida and Jacksonville University.